Jeffrey Peter Hanson, 31, died unexpectedly Friday, June 5, 2009, at
his home in St. Paul, Minn. He was born in Milwaukee and lived in Waukesha
until he graduated from Waukesha High School in 1996. Jeff was an
accomplished singer/songwriter, and during his teenage years founded a
band known as MIJ, which developed a large regional following. He was
later signed to a recording contract by the prestigious Kill Rock Stars (KRS)
label and went on to release three critically acclaimed albums of original
songs, "Son" in 2003, "Jeff Hanson" 2005 and
"Madam Owl" in 2008. He had recently completed tours in the U.S.
and Europe.

Jeff is survived by his parents, Peter and Martha (Youmans) Hanson of
Weston; his brother, Ryan C. (Jennifer) Hanson of Red Wing, Minn., and
their children, Alainn, Aine and Malachy; his sister, Sara K. Hanson (Joe
Elia) of Milwaukee; and his grandmother, Juanita Youmans of Waukesha. He
is further survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many
friends from all over the world. Jeff will also be sadly missed by his
dogs, Lucy and Cady.

Jeff was preceded in death by three grandparents, Charlie and Betty
Hanson and Henry A. Youmans, all of Waukesha. He was also preceded in
death by his aunt, Ann Liban of Milwaukee, and uncle, Dr. Steven Wenger of
Jacksonville, Ill.

Jeff was an exceptionally gifted and loving person, with a sense of
humor that endeared him to all who knew him. He will be missed beyond
measure.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to
the St. Paul, Minn., Humane Society.

A private memorial for family and friends, celebrating Jeff’s life
and music, will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 13, at
Merrill Hills Country Club, W270-S3425 Merrill Hills Road, Waukesha.